Emphasis Preaching Journal

A symphony by Respighi, titled Feste Romane (Roman Festival), describes, in music, a day at the Roman circus, where, in the Coliseum, Christian martyrs were put to death at the jaws of wild animals. In a scene of indescribable horror and anguish, one can hear the lions tearing at the flesh of Christians. But above the tumult of the arena, there is a faint melody flowing, barely discernible at first. Ultimately, however, the melody grows in strength until it overcomes and overwhelms the sounds of persecution and tribulation below.